A dozen 'warm banks' have opened in BCP - here’s where they are

The soaring cost of fuel and basic essentials has led to the rise of 'warm banks' – locations such as churches and libraries which people can visit if they are struggling to afford heating.

READ MORE: First 'warm bank' is set up in BCP to help with the cost of living crisis

Warm Welcome, a campaign group, has compiled a map of warm spaces across the UK – with 11 open in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole as of December 1.

David Barclay, manager of the Warm Welcome campaign, said it is "unacceptable" that people are being forced to decide whether to heat their homes or eat.

But he said that the response from civil society has provided "cause for hope" – with the number of warm spaces rising significantly from just 350 at the start of October.

This comes as more warm banks are opening due to the cold snap gripping the UK.

READ MORE: More warm banks being set-up in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

The UK Health Security Agency has issued a cold weather alert from Wednesday, December 7 to Monday, December 12, saying that those at risk should heat their most-used rooms to at least 18 degrees, wear extra layers, and have plenty of hot food and drinks to keep warm.

Here’s where you can find your nearest warm bank:

Bournemouth

St. Thomas' Church, Ensbury Park

St Thomas’ Church hosts Warm Wednesdays and Fridays.

On these days the church offers a place to come for those who need warmth, company, or refreshments.

Address: 2 Western Avenue, Ensbury Park, Bournemouth BH10 5BN

Website: www.ensburypark.org.uk

Bournemouth Community Church

The warm welcome hub at Bournemouth Community Church is called 'Lifehouse' and has been in operation for around 14 years.

The hub is also a foodbank and signposting agency and offers Community Money Advice help.

The church provides a warm friendly space where the public can drop in for a drink and chat.

Address: 711-715 Wimborne Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH9 2AU

Website: https://www.bournemouthcommunitychurch.com/

The Welcome Inn Cafe at Bournemouth Methodist Church

An intergenerational cafe where all are welcome. The cafe has a children's corner with toys, books and crafts.

Address: Edgehill Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH9 2QG

Website: https://www.facebook.com/thewelcomeinncafe

Winton Christadelphian Church

Winton Christadelphian Church opens its hall every Saturday from 10am - 12 for breakfast, warmth, fun and friendship throughout Nov, Dec and January.

Address: 574 Wimborne Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH9 2ER

Website: www.wintonchristadelphians.org

Hope Community Church

The Hope Hub caters for all ages and has a small play area for children. The Hope Hub cafe offers subsidised food and hot drinks.

Address: Hawthorn Road, Winton, Bournemouth , Dorset BH9 2QL

Website: www.hopeis.life

Jubilatte Cafe

The Jubilatte Cafe caters to all ages with a growing focus on elderly groups and people struggling with dementia. The cafe also has a soft play area for under 5's.

Address: 120 Southbourne Road, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 3QJ

Website: www.immanuelsouthbourne.org/

Christchurch

Twynham Church

Twynham Church is open on Sundays for a friendly service followed by free hot drinks. On Thursday the church hosts a social gathering with quizzes, games and events.

Address: 99 Barrack Road, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 2AL

Website: www.twynhamchuch.org

Christchurch Baptist Church

The Linkup Wellbeing Café offers a relaxed, friendly, hospitable space; somewhere to sit with a cup of tea or coffee and cake; read the paper or join in with hobbies or activities.

Gatherings at Christchurch Baptist Church, every Thursday, 10am-12noon.

Address: Bargates, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1QT

Website: www.christchurchbaptist.org.uk

Christchurch Christian Centre

The Meeting Place coffee morning is open every Monday 10am until 12 noon (excluding Bank Holidays).

This coincides with the local Monday market so members of the public can drop in for a cup of tea or coffee and choose from a selection of fresh cakes, all at reasonable prices.

Address: Millhams Street, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1DN

Website: Christchurchchristiancentre.org

Poole

Gatehouse

The Gatehouse is open during term time only. The site offers cake and volunteers can also signpost people to further help and support.

Address: Gateway Church, 502 Ashley Road, Poole, Dorset BH14 0AD

Website: www.gatewaychurch.me/gatehouse

The Hub at Christ Church Creekmoor

A safe, warm space for anyone who might need it. The cafe is open for purchasing food and drink but there is no obligation to do so. Indoor childrens play equipment is available, and all are welcome.

Address: The Hub Cafe at Christ Church Creekmoor, Creekmoor, Poole BH17 7XZ Website: www.christchurchcreekmoor.org/